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Volkswagen unveiled a new special-edition Beetle at the Chicago Auto Show today that will be the sportiest in looks, driving dynamics and macho for the new-generation Beetle that VW has worked to grow beyond a buyer base that writes the check because Beetles are is "cute."

The Beetle GSR is powered by a 210 hp. version of VW's 2.0 turbo with about 207 lb.-ft. of torque mated to a 6-speed manual or dual-clutch automatic. VW says the GSR moniker is for Gelb Schwarzer Renner or "Yellow Black Racer" (not "gun shot residue" as TV crime show fans might think) and is a reprise of the Beetle "Yellow Black Racer" produced in the 1970s. That one boasted a fierce 50 hp.

VW says it made only 3,500 of those and that will be the worldwide production run for the new one as well.

It will go on sale in the U.S. in the fall at a price to be announced. In Germany, ordering begins in May for delivery in the fall at a steep price of 30,300 euros ($40,628 today)

The old GSR had a yellow body and matte black trunk and hood; the new one is yellow with black trunk, hood, roof and mirrors. It gets a striping and a yellow and black spoiler as well. If this is too fashion-forward for your taste, VW says the new one (unlike in the more flamboyant 1970s) will be available also in a more subtle gray and black motif.

The limited-edition VW Beetle GSR Yellow Black Racer model unveiled in Chicago with the original version from the 1970s.(Photo: Uli Sonntag, VW)

Other concessions to modernity include 19-inch alloy wheels in the currently trend black, VW R-line sports seats (black leather for the U.S. version) and other R-line interior trim. And since the special model is based on the upscale Beetle Turbo model it comes with a full range of features, including upgraded audio and a sunroof.

VW projects 0-60 in 6.6 seconds for the GSR and a top-end of 130 mph. Gas mileage is rated about 32 mpg in Europe which would mean about mid-20s on the U.S. rating system.